The Deadly Ebola Threat in the Midst of an Overwhelming Dengue Epidemic
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The Deadly Ebola Threat in the Midst of an Overwhelming Dengue Epidemic
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Alwi Muhd BESARI, Siti Suraiya MD NOOR, Yeong Yeh LEE
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: The Deadly Ebola Threat in the Midst of an Overwhelming Dengue Epidemic
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The devastating impact of viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs), particularly Ebola and dengue, has recently drawn global attention due to alarming morbidity and mortality statistics. By August 2014, Malaysia reported 65,672 cases of dengue fever, resulting in 128 deaths, particularly affecting the state of Kelantan. In contrast, the Ebola outbreak, primarily concentrated in West Africa, had resulted in 3,091 deaths out of 6,574 cases by the end of September 2014. The severe characteristics of VHFs, including acute fever, vascular disruption, and rapid onset of shock and death, emphasize the urgent need for effective public health responses.
The Critical Nature of VHFs
Viral hemorrhagic fevers, which include diseases caused by various RNA viruses across four taxonomic families—Arenaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Filoviridae, and Flaviviridae—affect over 100 million individuals worldwide, leading to more than 60,000 deaths annually. These viruses share fundamental traits, such as being enveloped with single-stranded RNA genomes and exhibiting pantropism, primarily targeting immune cells like dendritic cells and monocytes. The pathophysiological mechanisms leading to disease include endothelial damage, inflammatory responses, and coagulation pathway disruptions, culminating in thrombocytopenia and immune system failure. While dengue virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, Ebola spreads through direct human-to-human contact, making the control strategies for these two diseases markedly different.
Conclusion
The current epidemiological landscape highlights the pressing need for rigorous public health measures to mitigate the risks posed by both dengue and Ebola. For dengue, successful vector control and environmental management are essential, while for Ebola, stringent infection control practices are needed to prevent transmission. As the situation evolves, the importance of international cooperation and effective governmental interventions become increasingly apparent to safeguard public health and prevent potential outbreaks from escalating further. Recognizing the distinctions between these viral diseases can guide targeted strategies to manage and ultimately reduce their burden on global health systems.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the shocking statistics regarding Ebola and dengue fever?
By August 2014, Malaysia reported 65,672 dengue cases with 128 deaths. Conversely, the Ebola outbreak led to 3,091 deaths from 6,574 cases, raising concerns about potential worldwide spread.
How are viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) classified by WHO?
The WHO revised the classification of dengue fever in 2012. It includes dengue without warning signs, dengue with warning signs, and severe dengue, improving patient monitoring and treatment management.
What is the role of vectors in controlling dengue disease?
Controlling and eliminating dengue requires successful management of mosquito vectors, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, along with eliminating their breeding sites to prevent transmission.
How does Ebola virus transmit compared to dengue virus?
Ebola virus spreads through human-to-human transmission via contact with blood or bodily fluids. In contrast, dengue does not have human-to-human transmission, as it is transmitted by mosquito bites.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The Deadly Ebola Threat in the Midst of an Overwhelming Dengue Epidemic”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom in many infectious diseases, including viral hemorrhagic fevers such as dengue and Ebola. It serves as the body’s response to infection, signaling the immune system to fight off pathogens. The presence of fever can aid in the diagnosis and guide treatment protocols in clinical settings.
2) Disease:
A disease refers to an abnormal condition affecting the body or mind that disrupts normal functioning. In the context of viral hemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola and dengue, these diseases are characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates, posing significant public health challenges worldwide.
3) Death:
Death is the final cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. In the context of infectious diseases like Ebola and dengue, high death rates reflect the severity and uncontrolled spread of these infections, highlighting the need for effective public health interventions and awareness.
4) Table:
In medical literature, a table often presents summarized data, comparisons, or findings clearly and concisely. For instance, a table comparing different viral hemorrhagic fevers can help understand mortality rates, clinical features, and treatment options among various diseases, aiding healthcare professionals in decision-making.
5) Viru:
Viruses are microscopic pathogens responsible for a range of infections, including the severe ones classified as viral hemorrhagic fevers. Understanding the biology, transmission, and pathogenesis of viruses aids in developing vaccines and antiviral therapies, essential for preventing outbreaks and managing existing infections.
6) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the way pathogens spread from one host to another. For diseases like Ebola, human-to-human transmission occurs through contact with bodily fluids, making it crucial to implement strict infection control measures to prevent outbreaks, especially in regions with weak healthcare systems.
7) Epidemic:
An epidemic is an outbreak of disease that occurs in a community or region at a higher than expected rate. The recent dengue epidemic in Malaysia underscores the importance of monitoring and controlling vector populations to reduce transmission levels and protect public health.
8) Study (Studying):
A study in a medical context can refer to systematic research aimed at understanding diseases, their effects, treatments, or prevention methods. Research studies provide the evidence needed to develop public health policies and improve clinical practices in managing outbreaks like dengue and Ebola.
9) Sign:
In clinical medicine, a sign is an indication of a disease observed during examination. For viral hemorrhagic fevers, specific signs such as bleeding or shock can help clinicians make timely diagnoses, leading to appropriate treatment and improved patient outcomes.
10) Bleeding:
Bleeding is a critical symptom in several viral hemorrhagic fevers, indicating severe disease progression and potential complications. In the context of dengue and Ebola, understanding bleeding patterns is key to identifying severe cases and managing treatment effectively to reduce mortality rates.
11) Blood:
Blood plays a vital role in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases. Testing blood samples can reveal the presence of viruses and help gauge the severity of infection. In hemorrhagic diseases, blood-related symptoms such as thrombocytopenia and coagulation dysfunction can be life-threatening.
12) Observation:
Observation in a clinical context allows healthcare professionals to monitor a patient's condition and response to treatment. Noticing changes in vital signs, symptoms, or behavior can be crucial for diagnosing conditions like Ebola or severe dengue and deciding on necessary interventions.
13) Family:
In virology, a family groups related viruses based on genetic and physical characteristics. Understanding the family of a virus helps in studying its transmission, pathogenesis, and the development of vaccines. Each family, such as Filoviridae for Ebola, has specific traits that dictate its behavior.
14) Cai (Caí):
Chai, in the context of medical studies, may refer to a researcher or a specific study that investigated aspects of diseases like dengue. Such research contributes to the broader body of knowledge needed for effective disease management and policy-making in public health.
15) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body’s protective response to injury or infection, commonly observed in viral diseases. Inflammatory responses can lead to symptoms like fever and pain, and in severe cases may contribute to complications in diseases such as dengue and Ebola, making it a target for therapeutic interventions.
16) Similarity:
Similarity in clinical presentations of different diseases can often complicate diagnoses. Comparing symptoms, transmission modes, and epidemiological factors of diseases like dengue and Ebola helps healthcare providers distinguish among potential infections, guiding appropriate public health responses and treatment protocols.
17) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a common symptom in various infectious diseases, including dengue and Ebola. It can indicate gastrointestinal involvement or systemic infection. Monitoring vomiting patterns helps clinicians assess disease severity and decide on necessary supportive care measures to prevent dehydration and complications.
18) Relative:
In medical research, 'relative' often refers to comparisons made between two or more findings. For instance, assessing the relative risk of complications between Ebola and dengue hemorrhagic fever can guide public health initiatives and resource allocation during outbreaks.
19) Habitat:
Habitat is crucial in understanding the ecology of disease vectors like mosquitoes that transmit dengue. Alterations in habitat due to urbanization or climate change can influence vector populations and, subsequently, the transmission dynamics of mosquito-borne diseases.
20) Meeting:
In the context of public health, meetings among stakeholders, researchers, and healthcare professionals are essential for strategizing responses to disease outbreaks. Collaborative efforts can lead to effective policies, resource allocation, and coordinated efforts to manage and control viral diseases.
21) Forest:
Forests may serve as natural habitats for zoonotic diseases, where viruses can spill over into human populations. Understanding interactions between wildlife in forested areas and humans is vital for preventing outbreaks of viral hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola.
22) Animal:
Animals serve as reservoirs for many pathogens, including viruses that cause severe diseases like Ebola. Understanding animal reservoirs helps in predicting outbreaks and implementing strategies to prevent spillover events, enhancing public health preparedness.
23) Insect:
Insects, especially mosquitoes, are significant vectors in the transmission of diseases like dengue. Studying insect behavior and habitats is key to developing effective control measures, minimizing human exposure and reducing the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases.
24) Ivory:
Ivory may refer to regions like Ivory Coast that have historically been affected by Ebola outbreaks. Understanding geographical links aids in epidemiological studies and highlights the need for targeted public health interventions in areas at risk.
25) Rules:
Rules or guidelines in infectious disease management dictate protocols for handling outbreaks, ensuring swift and effective responses. Adhering to established rules in clinical settings helps minimize the risk of transmission and improves patient outcomes, especially during public health emergencies.
26) Cutan:
Sudan is relevant in studying viral hemorrhagic fevers due to its history with Ebola outbreaks. Regional studies inform global health policies and preparedness initiatives, aiding in mitigating risks associated with potential outbreaks in similar geographic regions.
27) Food:
Food can play a role in the transmission dynamics of zoonotic diseases, particularly in rural areas where wild animals are consumed. Understanding cultural practices surrounding food can help in developing targeted interventions to minimize disease spillover risks.
28) Pain:
Pain is a critical symptom associated with many infections, including viral hemorrhagic fevers. Evaluating pain levels in patients aids in assessing disease severity and tailoring appropriate pain management strategies, contributing to overall patient care and comfort.
29) Post:
Post refers to conditions or symptoms that patients experience following infections, like post-infectious fatigue or complications. Understanding post-infection sequelae is vital for developing comprehensive care plans for recovery and ensuring long-term health following viral diseases.
Other Health Sciences Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘The Deadly Ebola Threat in the Midst of an Overwhelming Dengue Epidemic’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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